Quick and Simple Self-Care Strategies

When life gets hectic, how do you practice self-care? Do you feel like there's not enough time in the day to do so?

It may feel like you can't take time to de-stress because of all of the “to-do's” of the day or week. But when you neglect practicing self-care, you may feel run down or burnt out. It can certainly impact your emotional and physical well-being.

Here are some easy ways to practice self-care in order to feel more refreshed, present, and productive.

Stretch and breathe –It’s a simple and easy technique to practice. Stretching and breathing is super effective if you happen to be feeling run down and tired. Take 30 seconds to stretch out; it will get your blood flowing, and help ease achy and tired muscles. Taking deep breaths will increase your oxygen flow to your brain, which can help you feel calmer and more alert.

Declutter a room or work space –If you spend a few minutes to clearing your work space, filing paper work or picking up clutter in your home, you can make a noticeable difference in your mood. Being physically surrounded by clutter can clutter your mind as well. Next time you feel like there are too many thoughts in your mind, straighten up a space that you often use. It will give you a small sense of accomplishment. It will also create a space where you feel free to relax and be creative!

Go to bed 1 hour earlier –Prioritizing sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your health, as well as for coping well with life's challenges. A lack of sleep makes self-care more challenging to navigate, since crankiness, foggy thinking, and exhaustion make everything more difficult. Make it a priority to get to bed earlier; start going to bed a few minutes earlier each night until your reach your goal of falling asleep one hour earlier.

Make a gratitude list –This quick exercise has major benefits. Don't even think it through—just sit down for 5 minutes and jot down things or people that you are grateful for. You may be surprised by how seeing all of the good in your life on paper can make you feel better. You can make a gratitude list no matter where you are in order to shift or enhance your mood.

Unplug –Are constant notifications and online updates stressing you out? Taking a break from the hyper-connectedness of life gives you some much-needed space to rest. Whether it's turning your phone off, or limiting your time on social media, unplugging can be a great way to create balance if you're feeling overloaded with demands. Even just switching off for one day of your weekend, or taking digital breaks during vacation time, can give you a breather.

These are just a few small ways to enhance your mood and overall well-being throughout the day. No matter how busy you are, you owe it to yourself to try one of these self-care strategies. Carve out a small chunk of time each day to care for your mind and body. Every small step of self-care can contribute towards major long-term benefits.